Authorization and authentication of user access to a distributed network communication system with roaming features

Abstract

A system and method for providing roaming access on a network are disclosed. The network includes a plurality of wireless and/or wired access points. A user may access the network by using client software on a client computer (e.g., a portable computing device) to initiate an access procedure. In response, a network management device operated by a network provider may return an activation response message to the client. The client may send the user's username and password to the network provider. The network provider may rely on a roaming partner, another network provider with whom the user subscribes for internet access, for authentication of the user. Industry-standard methods such as RADIUS, CHAP, or EAP may be used for authentication. The providers may exchange pricing and service information and account information for the authentication session. A customer may select a pricing and service option from a list of available options.

Description

PRIORITY CLAIM[0001] This application claims benefit of priority of provisional application Serial No. 60 / 383,827 titled "Roaming" filed on May 29, 2002, whose inventors are James D. Keeler and Matthew M. Krenzer.[0002] 1. Field of the Invention[0003] This invention relates generally to network communications, and more specifically to a system and method enabling a network infrastructure to support multiple network providers and / or customers of multiple network providers.[0004] 2. Description of the Relevant Art[0005] Various types of wired and wireless infrastructures are being developed to provide High-speed Internet Access (HSIA) to users of computing devices, such as portable computing devices (PCDs). Currently, numerous providers are attempting to install wired and wireless network infrastructures in various locations, such as airports, hotels, office buildings, etc. for use by various users. Many of these providers also provide subscription services to customers. These subscri...

AI Technical Summary

Benefits of technology

0017] FIG. 2 is a more detailed block diagram of one embodiment of the wireless network system of FIG. 1 according to one embodiment;

Problems solved by technology

In the early days of cellular telephones, roaming was quite awkward.

This awkwardness was due to the fact that no standard mechanism or technology for exchange of credentials or billing information had been adopted.

More importantly, it is convenient and unobtrusive for the end-users.

If the authentication response indicates that the user account has not been authenticated, then the network provider may deny access to the network for the user.

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